Street Scene - Munich, Germany 1910

Captured in Munich, Germany in December 1910, this glass negative shows a lively street scene where a crowd of adults and children gathers to feed pigeons. The group, dressed in heavy winter coats, bowler hats, and furs, reflects the fashion of early 20th century Bavaria. Several young girls in matching coats stand at the centre, scattering crumbs, while boys in woollen caps and families look on with amusement.

In the background, the facades of Munich’s city buildings display prominent signage:

• “Hamburg-Amerika Linie” – the Hamburg America Line, one of the world’s largest passenger and shipping companies at the time, advertising ocean travel between Germany and America.

• “Gebrüder Hirsch” – meaning “Hirsch Brothers”, likely a retail or trading business.

• “Robert Nickl” – the name of another Munich-based merchant or business owner.

• Window signs read “Edelweiss”, referencing the Alpine flower, often used as a brand or motif in Bavarian businesses.

• A round sign reads “Salon de Coiffure – Damensalon / Friseur” (Ladies’ Hair Salon / Barber).

The scene preserves not only a moment of public leisure and joy in Munich’s central square but also the urban fabric of 1910, when international shipping companies, local trades, and stylish shops shared space with everyday life.